A well-defined lawn edge can really take your yard to the next level. Crisp edges along sidewalks, driveways, and garden beds give a polished, professional look to your outdoor space. When it comes to choosing materials for edging your lawn, you have several attractive options. The best edging solution for your yard will depend on factors like budget, DIY skills, aesthetic preferences, and how much upkeep you’re willing to handle. In this guide, we’ll walk through the most popular edging materials to consider for your lawn.

Brick Lawn Edging

Brick is a classic edging choice that provides a timeless, elegant border. Laying a brick edge takes some upfront work, but the end result is well worth the effort. Here’s what to know about using brick as a lawn edging material:

Durability

Brick edges can last for decades when properly installed. The bricks themselves hold up well to the elements and resist deterioration. Properly compacted and leveled sand or gravel underneath prevents shifting or buckling of the edge over time.

Customizable Looks

From classic red clay to sleek concrete options, brick comes in a wide range of styles. You can pick a brick color and texture that complements your home. Mixing brick sizes and laying patterns also allows for creativity in your design. An interlocking herringbone pattern provides visual interest.

Higher Upfront Cost

Brick edges do require more investment on the front end. In addition to the bricks themselves, you’ll need to factor in costs for excavation, a gravel base, and sand for leveling. Many homeowners choose to hire a professional landscape contractor to handle brick edging installation.

Substantial Permanent Edge

For those seeking a lush, refined border that will last for decades, brick can’t be beat. The substantial weight and feel of a brick edge defines and contains a lawn for the long haul. It also prevents grass and weeds from encroaching.

If you enjoy working on DIY projects and want a border that makes a statement, consider putting in the time, effort, and investment for a gorgeous brick lawn edge.

Aluminum Lawn Edging

Aluminum edging provides a striking accent that requires minimal maintenance. Here are the pros and cons of using this material:

Sleek, Modern Look

Straight aluminum edges have a very clean, contemporary look. The silver color provides contrast against lush green grass. Aluminum edging helps define lawns with crisp, straight lines and 90-degree corners.

Lightweight and Easy to Install

Aluminum lawn edging comes in flexible coils that can be bent, cut to length, and inserted into the ground. Compared to working with heavy materials like bricks or concrete, installation is straightforward for DIYers.

Low Maintenance

Once installed, aluminum edging is virtually maintenance-free. It won’t chip, crack, or require repainting like other materials can. You can also extend the edges farther into the lawn over time since the material is flexible.

Not as Substantial as Brick or Concrete

The lightweight nature of aluminum means it can occasionally get dinged or bent if hit by heavy equipment. It lacks the ultra-permanent stability and substance of brick and concrete borders.

Susceptible to Corrosion

Aluminum can develop unsightly surface oxidation over many years outdoors. Choosing an anodized aluminum edging and periodically cleaning it can help minimize this issue.

Aluminum lawn edging provides an attractive, low-maintenance solution. It’s ideal for DIYers looking for a modern accent that won’t require ongoing upkeep.

Plastic Lawn Edging

For a lightweight, flexible lawn border option, plastic edging is a top choice. Here’s an overview of what plastic edging offers:

Budget-Friendly

Plastic edging is one of the most affordable DIY edging options. It can be purchased in bulk rolls for just a few dollars. Installation only requires a shovel, shears, and stakes. No special tools or masonry skills needed.

Easy to Work With

The thin plastic coils are lightweight and easy to cut to length. Bending allows you to curve edges and make 90-degree angles. You simply trench the edge, set the plastic in place, and drive stakes through the pre-cut holes.

Discreet Look

Once installed, plastic edging takes on a low profile, discreet appearance in the lawn. Colors like black, green, or brown help the edges blend in. Plastic is a good option if you don’t want your edging to make a bold visual statement.

Not Totally Permanent

Plastic edging is not as sturdy and long-lasting as metal, brick, or concrete. It can become brittle and warped over time. The edges may need occasional replacements as the material deteriorates.

Susceptible to Damage

Plastic borders can become wavy or get knocked out of place if hit by heavy lawn mowers or string trimmers. They provide only minimal containment for aggressive grasses.

For those working with a limited budget who still want a clean, defined edge, plastic is a solid choice. Just don’t expect lifelong permanence from plastic lawn edging.

Steel Lawn Edging

Steel edges provide strong containment and a very bold, visible border. Here are the pros and cons to consider:

Extremely Durable

Once properly installed, steel edges will likely outlast the rest of your landscaping. They provide an exceptionally sturdy barrier and resist deterioration.

Makes a Statement

The strong, straight lines of steel edging make a dramatic impression. Galvanized or black steel stands out strikingly against the lawn. This edging commands attention.

Some Flexibility

Steel lawn edging coils allow for some bending during installation. But the result remains straight and taut. Steel also holds its shape well over time without sagging.

Doesn’t Deter Weeds or Grass

Steel alone will not prevent weeds or grass from encroaching into a lawn. You need to periodically use string trimmers or other tools to maintain the crisp edges.

Professional Installation Recommended

While DIY steel edging installation is possible, it requires trenching and may involve cutting through tree roots. Hiring a professional ensures proper placement.

For its unparalleled strength and bold definition, steel edges are worth the investment. Just budget for professional installation and be prepared to actively maintain the edges.

Bamboo Lawn Edging

For an organic look, bamboo makes an attractive edging accent. Here are some things to know about this material:

Provides a Natural Accent

Bamboo has a beautiful, natural appearance that adds texture and warmth to gardens and lawns. The tan color and variances in the wood grain add visual interest.

Sustainable and Biodegradable

Since bamboo is a fast-growing grass, products made from bamboo stalks are renewable and sustainable. As an organic material, bamboo edging will gradually biodegrade.

Adds Containment Without Harsh Lines

Compared to the rigid lines of metal and plastic edging, bamboo has a softer, more casual look. It provides separation while still feeling integrated.

Prone to Warping and Splitting

Bamboo edging requires more maintenance and replacement than synthetic options. The wood can crack, warp, and pop out of the ground over time.

Easy for Weeds and Grass to Encroach

Bamboo alone does not provide the strongest barrier to contain encroaching grasses. You may need added plastic or metal edging underneath for support.

For those seeking a warm, organic accent, bamboo can give your lawn edging loads of curb appeal. Just be prepared to replace sections periodically as needed.

Rubber Lawn Edging

For a flexible, family-friendly edging option, consider rubber:

Soft and Safe

Rubber edging has a gentle texture and flexibility. The material bends rather than cutting if bumped into. This makes it a safer choice for yards with kids and pets.

Easy to Install

Most rubber edging simply presses into the ground. Some types click together like plastic modular tiles—no need for trenching. DIYers can quickly install rubber edging in a weekend.

Discreet Appearance

Once in place, rubber edges take on a subtle, organic look that naturally separates spaces rather than boldly defining edges. They come in natural muted colors like black, brown, or beige.

Not Totally Permanent

Rubber edging is not as heavy duty and contains less than metal or masonry options. It may require occasional realigning as the material shifts or compresses.

Can Harbor Weeds and Insects

The flexible nature of rubber edging allows weeds and bugs to potentially burrow underneath. You may need an additional barrier material.

Rubber is a great lawn edging choice if you prioritize safety and a subtle look. Just monitor and maintain the edges periodically.

Lava Rock Lawn Edging

For a natural stone look with lower cost, consider using lava rock to edge your lawn. Here’s an overview:

Unique, Textured Look

With its porous, jagged shape, lava rock makes an interesting alternative to smooth river rock edging. The black color provides contrast against greenery.

Naturally Low Maintenance

Lava rock requires no sealing, staining, or other upkeep to hold its color and shape outdoors. You can install it and let it age naturally.

Provides Easy Drainage

The porous, rough texture of lava rock allows rainwater to easily permeate through rather than pooling. This prevents buildup of moisture.

Loose Composition

Unlike mortared or cemented materials, loose lava rock can shift out of place over time. It works best when contained within a sturdy edge.

Can Harbor Weeds

The many nooks and crannies in porous lava rock provide ample room for weed seeds and soil to accumulate. Expect to periodically hand-pull weeds.

Lava rock makes an inexpensive, low-maintenance addition to lawn edging. Use it to complement other sturdier border materials.

Copper Lawn Edging

For an eye-catching accent, copper lawn edging adds elegance. Consider the following:

Distinctive, Upscale Look

The warm, reddish-orange glow of copper makes a stunning design statement. Against lush greenery, copper borders add rich color and visual interest.

Naturally Resists Corrosion

Copper surfaces form a patina as they age, which provides natural corrosion resistance. Unlike other metals, copper will not rust or require paint.

Effective Weed Barrier

Tightly installed copper edging essentially forms an impenetrable below-ground wall that prevents weed encroachment into the lawn.

Challenging DIY Installation

Bending copper coils requires special tools and pads to prevent kinking. Unless you have copper working experience, seek professional installation.

Higher Upfront Cost

As a premium material, copper costs substantially more than other lawn edging options. But its unparalleled beauty offsets the price for many homeowners.

For the ultimate upgrade in style and substance, incorporate copper edging into your landscape design. The eye-catching detail provides lasting enjoyment.

Stone Lawn Edging

For a classic look with staying power, stone makes a fantastic lawn edging option. Consider the following benefits:

Timeless, Traditional Style

Stone edging has been used for generations to define landscapes. Materials like granite, limestone, and river rock offer timeless appeal. Integrates beautifully into landscaping.

Long-Lasting Durability

Properly installed stone edges will retain their strength and structure for decades without deteriorating. They also remain firmly in place when set on a crushed rock base.

Variety of Looks

From irregular flagstone to neatly cut bricks, stone edging comes in endless shapes, sizes, colors, and textures. Mix and match for custom designs.

Provides Weed Control

Stone set tightly together helps block underground growth and encroachment of weeds. Less need for manual weed removal near edges.

Labor-Intensive Installation

Getting stone edges perfectly level and secured in place requires expertise. Unless you have stone mason skills, hire a professional landscaper.

For unrivaled permanence and aesthetics, invest in high-quality stone edging. Carefully chosen materials create a look you’ll enjoy for life.

Logs as Lawn Edging

For organic, casual style, logs make great lawn borders. Consider the following:

Rustic, Natural Look

Logs with the bark left on provide a raw, rustic feel and blend beautifully into natural or woodland garden settings. They feel harmonious with nature.

Inexpensive DIY Option

Cut and prepare your own logs, or source them sustainably from your property or a local landscape supplier. Installation just requires securing them partially buried.

Allows for Curving Borders

Logs can be gently bent and curved to create free-flowing, casual edges. They provide flexibility compared to rigid materials.

Prone to Rotting and Decay

As an organic material, wood edges break down relatively quickly. Expect to replace logs every few years as they deteriorate. Sealants help slow decay.

Can Harbor Pests

The gaps and crevices in logs provide habitats for nuisance insects and spiders. Thoroughly inspect woods before installation.

Logs make a great temporary edging solution and are ideal for gardeners going for a casual, DIY style. For permanent crisp edges, pair logs with a buried plastic or metal border.

Concrete Lawn Edging

Concrete edging provides a textured yet contemporary border. Consider the following:

Long-Lasting Durability

Reinforced concrete contains strength and substance to keep edges firmly in place for decades. Properly mixed and cured concrete resists cracking.

Customizable Shapes and Finishes

Whether smooth, patterns, or impressions, concrete offers unlimited design flexibility. Contrasting color dyes or stains can be added too.

Effective Weed and Grass Barrier

With solid concrete, there are no cracks or seams for weeds to creep through. Concrete contains lawns neatly.

Prone to Cracking Over Time

Changing soil conditions and freeze-thaw cycles can cause even reinforced concrete edges to eventually crack and require repairs.

Professional Installation Best

Between excavation, forming, proper concrete mixing and pouring, and finishing, installing concrete edging is complex. Hire a pro.

For the ultimate customized edge that provides a strong barrier, concrete is hard to top. Balance the upfront cost with decades of enjoyment.

Choose the Best Edging for Your Yard

When selecting the ideal edging material for your landscape, consider which benefits matter most:

• Budget – How much are you able to invest in purchasing edging materials and installation?
• Curb Appeal – Do you want an edging that subtly blends in or makes a bold visual impact?
• DIY Skill – Are you comfortable tackling installation yourself or do you prefer hiring a professional?
• Longevity – Are you looking for permanent edging that will last decades or does replacing every so often not bother you?
• Lawn Containment – Do you need sturdy edging to hold back aggressive grasses and weeds?
• Safety and Accessibility – For yards with kids and pets, consider softer edged materials less prone to cutting.

Take time to carefully assess your needs and preferences. Then choose lawn edging materials that best deliver the benefits you’re seeking. Proper edging installation truly levels up the aesthetic appeal of your landscape while keeping maintenance to a minimum. With the right edging, you can showcase a crisp, polished yard you can be proud of.

FAQs About Lawn Edging Materials

Lawn edging is an important detail that really takes your landscaping to the next level. Here are answers to common questions about choosing edging materials:

What is the easiest lawn edging to install?

The most DIY-friendly edging materials are plastic, aluminum, and rubber. These materials bend and flex easily to shape without special tools. Most push or press into place without deep digging or trenching required.

What lawn edging lasts the longest?

Brick, stone, and concrete edged properly installed and reinforced have the longest lifespan. Steel and aluminum also last for many years. Plastic, wood, and rubber have shorter lifespans before needing replacement.

What height should lawn edging be?

Most edging should run 4-6 inches above the ground to adequately contain the lawn. Deeper edging 8+ inches helps contain vigorous grasses and weeds. But taller edging can be a tripping hazard.

What is the most inexpensive lawn edging?

Plastic edging is generally the most budget-friendly choice for homeowners. It can be purchased in bulk and installed without heavy equipment. Scrap wood or logs also provide cost-effective casual edging.

Should lawn edging be flush with grass?

Lawn edging should sit slightly above the grass line, about 1-2 inches higher. This provides definition and helps contain growth. If edging is flush with grass, the border visually disappears.

What is the best material for curving landscape edging?

More flexible materials like plastic, rubber, and aluminum work well for gently curving landscape edging. Rigid concrete, stone, and steel can only make straight borders unless molded and poured into custom curves.

Which edging is pet and child friendly?

For safety, opt for rounded, padded materials like rubber edging. Avoid sharp edges or natural stone that can scrape and cut. Also consider resilient edging that won’t easily bend or warp if bumped into frequently.

Should edging touch foundations and plant beds?

Leave a 1-2 inch gap between edging and foundations or